On July 8, 2013 a YouTube video was posted online which immediately became breaking news. Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus, and Michelle Knight (three women who had been missing and held captive in the USA for a decade) decided to come forward two months after their rescue. They wanted to publically thank the people who contributed to a supportive fund and who have emotionally supported them since their freedom from captivity. The online video was three and a half minutes long and has garnered over 3 million views. News media outlets scrambled to transcribe the online video and it is now available in text format for the world to see.

Transcribed: Messages from the Women

Amanda: "I want everyone to know how happy I am to be home with my family and my friends. It’s been unbelievable," she stated. She also thanked the public for their help and support and she expressed a desire for continued privacy. Amanda’s kidnapping made news in 2003 when she was the age of 16. She gave birth to a daughter during her captivity and her daughter is now 6 years old.

Gina: "Thank you for the support," Gina said. She was accompanied to the recording by her parents, Felix DeJesus and Nancy Ruiz. Her father stated, "I’d like to thank everybody who donated to the courage fund for these girls." Her mother’s comments followed and she directed the following advice at parents of missing children, "Count on your neighbors. Don’t be afraid to ask for the help because help is available." Gina was kidnapped in 2004 when she was just 14 years old.

Michelle: "I just want everyone to know I’m doing just fine. I may have been through hell and back, but I am strong enough to walk through hell with a smile on my face." She reminded people that "God is in control" and also expressed a desire to help other people who have been through similar circumstances. Michelle exuded boldness and strength—no fear—and her comments were the most extensive. She was the first of the three women to be abducted. Her story made news headlines in 2002 and she was 21 years old at the time.

Plans for the Future

The Cleveland Courage Fund was set up as a way to financially assist the three women. The fund has already surpassed the $1 million mark. The women expressed sincere gratitude for the help that the community has given them. They do not plan to make any additional public appearances or statements as of now, but they felt a strong desire to come forward at this time and say thank you. The Cleveland Courage Fund has encouraged people to visit their website (http://clevelandcourage.org/) for further information on how to help these amazing women.

Online Transcription Helps Broadcast Breaking News

Because of online transcription, stories like these are made even more public and the world is able to come together to help individuals in need. The transcription industry is proud to be a part of the process which broadcasts breaking news.